Mawokota fired up as Buddu stops Gomba in Masaza Cup opener

The 2025 Masaza Cup season kicked off on Saturday, June 21 with holders Buddu edging Gomba 1-0 at the Kitovu Sports Arena.

Chrispus Sseruwugge grabbed the solitary goal seven minutes from time to hand holders Buddu, the best possible start as they bid for back-to-back crowns. The tournament, which is played among the countries of Buganda kingdom, reserved a huge shot in the arm last Friday when Pilsner King entered a Shs 285m partnership with the Masaza Cup.

The deal was unveiled at a media event at Bulange, Mengo in the the presence of the Buganda kingdom Katikkiro, Charles Peter Mayiga. Mayiga highlighted the historical and cultural significance of the Masaza Cup, which has grown into one of the country’s most influential platforms for community mobilization and youth empowerment.

“Sports are not simply for the enjoyment one receives on the pitch, but the benefits are immense. It offers employment, builds the body and soul of the participants, bridges gaps and strengthens unity but also raises a lot of funds for individual personalities and for the government through tax revenue. These are the benefits that the Masaza Cup brings,” he said.

The Masaza Cup continues to be a cornerstone of Uganda’s sporting calendar, attracting thousands of fans and emerging footballers each season. The tournament promotes talent development across the 18 Buganda Kingdom counties, while preserving cultural identity and strengthening community ties.

Uganda Breweries Limited’s Lilliane Kansiime emphasized that the sponsorship is rooted in shared values between Pilsner King and the Buganda kingdom.

“Our continuous support towards the Masaza Cup not only resonates with our commitment towards giving back to the communities in which we operate, but the tournament also aligns with the brand’s mission to inspire Ugandans to make bold moves and fuel community connection,” she said.

Meanwhile, Mawokota county are leaving no stone unturned in their bid to go to the zenith of Masaza Cup football. Supported by the deep pockets of Vipers owner Dr Lawrence Mulindwa, Mawokota have put together a formidable squad with the intention of winning the Holy Grail.

Their team includes the 2024 Masaza Cup MVP Amour Munogera and last year’s victorious skipper Pius Sebulime. St Mary’s Kitende Secondary School-based twins George Kato and George Wasswa are also in the team.